The Average Salary for Embalmers
An embalmer is a licensed professional who prepares the deceased for funeral services and burials. The embalming process requires cleansing the body and replacing blood with embalming fluid to preserve the tissues of the body. Many embalmers are funeral directors who provide burial services as well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported average wages for this occupation in May 2009.
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Job Requirements
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The minimum educational requirement for this occupation is an associate's degree in mortuary science. Most also are required to apprentice under the direction of a licensed funeral director for one to three years. All states require a license to practice professionally in this occupation.
Median Salaries
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated there were 8,190 embalmers employed in May 2009. The national median salary for embalmers was $40,620 per year. The 25th percentile earned $30,860, and the 75th percentile earned $50,720 per year.
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Industries
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Embalmers were reported working in two distinct industries: death care services and colleges, universities and professional schools. Those who worked in the death care services industry earned annual mean wages of $41,150. Colleges, universities and professional schools paid annual mean wages of $47,210.
Geography
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The highest concentration of embalmers was reported in Georgia, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Arkansas and Mississippi. The annual mean wage in Rhode Island was $49,380. In Massachusetts, where the highest wages were reported, embalmers earned annual mean wages of $58,270. In Arkansas, annual mean wages were $43,660 per year.
Job Outlook
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Employment for funeral directors is expected to increase 12 percent through 2018. Those who provide embalming services should receive the most employment opportunities. Employment growth is expected because many funeral directors will retire between 2008 and 2018.
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References
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